Articles Tagged With:
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With HCV Cases Climbing, Needlesticks Pose Risk
The national opioid epidemic has driven a steady increase in hepatitis C virus, putting healthcare workers at risk of acquiring the bloodborne pathogen if they incur a needlestick. Although most infections in opioid users — primarily via sharing needles — are completely treatable, 14,000 people a year die of hepatitis C, according to the CDC.
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Health Systems Start Transition to New Approach for Treating Ischemic Stroke
Alteplase has been a mainstay to treat ischemic stroke. When given within hours of an episode, evidence has shown the clot-busting medication can improve outcomes. But what if there was a drug that could deliver similar, and possibly even better, outcomes for a subset of stroke patients without some of the logistical hurdles associated with alteplase?
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Healthcare Leaders Identify Steps to Maximize Response to Mass Shooting Events
As mass shooting events continue, healthcare leaders are focused on how the medical response is effective and expeditious. Frontline providers who have experienced such events have first-hand knowledge about where the weak links are and can offer unique insight on how organizations can work within their regions to be better prepared.
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Medical, Law Enforcement Teams Share Expertise, Support During Dangerous Situations
One way to accelerate care to victims of mass casualty events is to direct physicians who are accustomed to working with law enforcement to respond to the scene so they can provide high-level care to victims immediately. That is part of the emerging specialty called tactical medicine.
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Device Could Detect When Patient’s Condition Is Deteriorating
Researchers developed the Analytic for Hemodynamic Instability, an artificial intelligence-driven device that can provide continuous monitoring. This way, clinicians can pick up signs of patient deterioration promptly and deploy appropriate resources early.
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Patient Safety Report on Diagnostic Errors Is Relevant for EDs
A recent report offers specific guidance on preventing diagnostic errors, with some practices aimed at the ED.
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Legal Exposure for Hospitals if ED Nurses’ Safety Concerns Are Ignored
In the aftermath of violence in EDs, some nurses alleged long-standing workplace safety concerns went unheeded. In this scenario, there are multiple regulatory and liability concerns.
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Obligations for EDs if Clinicians Suspect Human Trafficking
Multiple efforts are underway to improve the ability of healthcare workers to respond to human trafficking. But there has been insufficient work regarding ED readiness and properly screening for trafficking.
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Obstacles to ED Admission Cause Legal Problems
When faced with this tricky situation, emergency physicians should carefully document discussions and remember they are responsible for clearly communicating about the patient’s condition, test results, and indication for admission.
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Few Malpractice Claims Involve Ultrasound
Point-of-care ultrasound has been proven to improve patient care and outcomes in many ways. But novice users express fear of litigation as a barrier.